The perfect reflection of Rajasthani cultures and traditions, Bikaner is a city that fascinates the history lovers. The glorifying history, the enchanting past and the legendary stories of this city captivates the hearts of its travelers from all over the world. Considered as if ever beauty has bloomed in a desert, it has been Bikaner.
Founded by Rao Bika Ji in 1488 AD, it is located in the north-west part of Rajasthan. Being one of the largest cities of Rajasthan, Bikaner was regarded as the oasis of the Thar Desert. Located in the middle of the Thar Desert, Bikaner houses one of the most alluring structures and architectures. With a great historic significance, Bikaner was before known as to be the Jungladesh until when Rao Bikaji, the son of Maharaja Rao Jodha picked the land and established his empire and converted the place to the Bikaner City. Ruled by many great rulers of Rathore clan, Bikaner is the home to several architectural marvels and splendid temples. Being home to one of the only two models of the biplane which were used by the British in World War I, these models served as a gift from British to Maharaja Ganga Singh who was then the ruler of the city. Being the home to plenty of great and brave rulers and empires, Bikaner has got a great deal of historic significance and all of these rulers and empires held a huge hand in multiplying the beauty of the city with some major and most magnificent architectures and constructions that are well preserved and very well maintained till today. Located in the middle of the Thar Desert, this beautiful city boasts some of the world’s best riding camels and its therefore nicknamed as the “Country of Camels”.
The city of Bikaner encircled by the Thar Desert is a must-visit destination residing in the arms of the Northern state of Rajasthan. And reaching this point of attraction via air mode is quite a great idea to live by. The nearest airport to Bikaner is Jodhpur Airport; upon arrival at Jodhpur either you can cover the remaining distance via taxi or bus.
The city of Bikaner is linked with a wide network of roads; the road journey will surely be exciting because this how you can witness the passing by views. The well-functioning state and National Highways namely NH11, 89 and 15 connect the awe-inspiring city of Bikaner with other major Indian cities.
The striking city of Bikaner owns two railheads – the first one is Bikaner Junction and the other is Lalgarh junction Railway station. These stations are situated at a minimal distance of approximately 6 kilometres from one another. There are numerous trains to Bikaner – Bikaner Mail, Bikaner Express, Kalka Express etc.
You can travel as per your comfort; however the peak duration starts from the wintery months of October to the end of March. These are a few months, which are dressed in calmer and pleasant essence of presence. The camel city of Rajasthan serves its visitors with the best views of sunset and sunrise.
A city founded by Rao Bika in the year of 1486 is well-equipped with all sorts of places of stay; from the basic hotels to the notable heritage hotels. From ethnic accommodation to the fancy ones; pick whichever suits you the best.
The prominent city of Bikaner is infused with the strong and flavourful essence of folk music [the melodious and soulfull recitations of numerous poems. Bikaner is well-known for its delicious snack Bhujia [Bikaneri Bhujia], which is sold all over the world. This place is heaven for snack lovers because apart from Bhujia, it also offers a wide variety of Namkeens, spicy Papad etc.
While exploring every corner of this fascinating city make sure to have samosa and Kachori – these items are highly recommended by the locals for its travellers to taste. Most of the Bikaner famous dishes are offered with a topping of butter; gram flour is the prominent ingredient here, delicacies like Khata, Gatte Ki Sabzi, Pakodi are made out of it. The usage of Corn and Bajra is quite prevalent over here – it is used while preparing eateries like Khichdi, Rabdi and Roti. Do make sure to have the traditional Rajasthani dish called Dal Baati Churma.
The adorable city of Bikaner is ornamented with all the reasons one come looking after in order to live the best of India. It also resides in great pride for housing the striking Junagarh Fort, the Laxmi Niwas Palace etc. It also celebrates numerous festivals of importance on a greater scale; here are some to name – the Camel Festival of Bikaner is the most awaited one [full of happening colours and liveliness]; the Karni Mata Fair, the Kapil Muni Fair, the Gangaur festival, the Kite Festival etc. One should definitely pay a visit to this striking city at least once in a lifetime.
The house of Junagarh Fort, Lalgarh Fort is also accompanied by the friendly presence of various shopping markets. Famous Market regions like Kote Gate, Station Road market, Sonaron Ka Mohalla etc. Things to buy from Bikaner include products like Rajasthani Handicrafts, Miniature Paintings, Kundan Jewellery, ethnic Sarees, bangles, Leather Mojari, Nokha Razai, Bikaneri Bhujia and several other flavoured Namkeens.
You will definitely spend a great time shopping here, especially if his happening activity is accompanied by your close friends or a few favourite family members. Do make sure to buy a packet or two of Bikaneri Bhujia to take it back home because the taste of it will stay in your mouth for quite some days and you will definitely crave for more.
One of the most prominent forts of Bikaner was constructed by the third ruler of Bikaner, Rai Singh between 1587 and 1593. Protected by 986meter long sandstone wall, the fort is comprised with 37 bastions, a moat and by the forbidding expanse of the Thar Desert. No wonder why this massive fort has never been conquered. Home to the 37 dazzling palaces and temples and pavilions, the beauty to the fort has been added by the rulers over centuries.
Built by Maharaja Ganga Singh for his father Maharaja Lal Singh in 1902. Constructed with red sandstone, the palace was designed by Sir Swinton Jacob with a perfect fusion of Rajputana, Islamic and European style of architectures. As the palace is now converted into a hotel and a museum, the museum houses the vintage photographs and wildlife trophies. With another site for travelers, Lal Garh Palace is also a home to the beautiful gardens that are open for exploration to its visitors.
Known as a residence to the population of Rats, this 600 years old Karni Mata Temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga. With a believe that Goddess Durga lived in this palace and plenty of miracles were performed during the 14th century, this temple is the most prominent face of the tourism of Bikaner. Housing more than 20,000 rats that roma around freely in the temple, devotees from all over the world visit here seeking the abundance of the blessings of Goddess Durga.
Considered to be as a gem, this magnificent palace was built by the king Ganga Singh in 1976. Located in the desert region of Rajasthan, this magnificent fort is spread across 6000acres and is blessed with the picturesque beauty of landscapes and architecture. Considered to be the haunted area in British Raj, it’s now divided into four wings that are known as the Dungar Niwas, Mandir Chowk, Gulab Niwas and Champa Niwas.
Now, as it is converted into an extremely luxurious hotel, the palace is still preserved in its own way. The hotel provides the royal experience to its visitors and offers the perfect fusion of royalty and Rajasthani culture. Activities of Bikaner: as per the point of interests of Bikaner, apart from just the Sightseeing Tour of Bikaner, one can opt for a Camel Ride Safari in Desert area; go for a finger licking Food Tour, attend some colorful festivals and don’t forget to get some Bikaneri Bhujia’s packets with you!
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